What's a good beginner turntable at $2500+- range?

remember he's talking buying used at $2500 or a bit more.

The Technics is a cute table and a high value product... It is in the Music Hall, Project, Rega, league.

I disagree with this assertion. I've had Music Halls and Pro-jects, and I've heard Regas. My KAB Technics beats all of them hands-down. Coupled with the Denon DL-103 cartridge, it crushes my previous turntable, a Project RM-6. I've heard a mid-level Nottingham and I would say that the Technics is at least competitive with it.

While I do agree that for the $2500 the original poster is looking to spend you can do better, with a properly mated cartridge and phono preamp, the KAB Technics can hold its own with tables costing significantly more than it does.

The original poster wants to spend more than the Technics, though, so it's a non-issue.

Michael

Exactly. Raise the budget to $4000, get the Galibier, and be done with it. On the other hand although its an overseas purchase the Scheu table for sale here right now is downright amazing as well. I purchased a MkII version used with 50mm platter and battery power supply and have been very pleased.

05-08-08: Sufentanil
I've had Music Halls and Pro-jects, and I've heard Regas. My KAB Technics beats all of them hands-down. Coupled with the Denon DL-103 cartridge, it crushes my previous turntable, a Project RM-6. I've heard a mid-level Nottingham and I would say that the Technics is at least competitive with it.

Which KAB mods does your Technics have? And what headshell are you using with the DL-103? Would you say the fluid damper is essential for getting the best out of the DL-103?